University fast-tracks subsidised public transport pilot for staff

Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland has fast-tracked a public transport subsidy for staff through Auckland Transport’s Fareshare scheme, responding to rising petrol prices and increasing cost-of-living pressures.

From 6 May 2026, eligible staff will receive a 25 percent discount on weekday public transport fares, as part of a 12-month pilot aimed at easing bus, train and ferry commuting costs and encouraging more sustainable travel.

Director of HR Andrew Phipps said work was already underway to trial the Fareshare scheme, but recent fuel price rises prompted the University to bring forward the initiative.

“We’re very aware of the financial pressures that our staff, like many New Zealanders, are facing right now, which have been compounded by recent global geopolitical events,” Phipps said.

“While supporting sustainable commuting has been part of our longer-term plan, we fast-tracked this pilot in response to growing concerns from staff.”

Public transport is already the most common way University staff travel to work, with support for sustainable commuting regularly highlighted in staff feedback.

The introduction of the Fareshare pilot has also been supported by staff unions, reflecting shared interest in reducing commuting costs and supporting staff well-being.

With more than 10,000 staff working across the University, Phipps said increasing staff public transport use aligned with the University’s sustainability goals and could deliver broader city-wide benefits.

“As one of the city’s largest employers, any effort we make to cut down on the number of vehicles travelling into the city has the potential to reduce congestion and emissions, and ease parking pressure on campus and in surrounding areas," Phipps said.

Alongside Fareshare, the University continues to offer a range of options to accommodate different commuting needs, including end-of-trip facilities, competitively priced inner-city car parking, dedicated rideshare parking spaces, and flexible working.

The pilot will be reviewed after 12 months before any decision is made on whether to extend or expand the programme.